UAV GPR Scraper Tracking for Buried Pipeline Stuck Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for locating and tracking pipeline scrapers in buried pipelines are time-consuming, require specialized manpower, and are inefficient, especially in complex and remote locations, leading to difficulties in detecting and preventing stuck conditions and ensuring safe arrival at receiver facilities.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with a ground penetrating radar (GPR) antenna to transmit and receive waves, analyze parameters, and determine the location and movement of scrapers in real-time, sending coordinates and timestamps to a controller unit for continuous tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual locating methods using above ground markers are used, then the scraper can be located, but the process is time-consuming and requires specialized trained manpower
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical locating method with an automated electromagnetic detection system. The GPR antenna transmits electromagnetic waves through the pipeline wall to detect the scraper's position automatically, eliminating the need for manual intervention and significantly reducing detection time while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection system consisting of the GPR antenna and signal processing unit. This intermediary automatically detects scraper position by analyzing electromagnetic wave reflections, serving as a mediator between the scraper and the monitoring system, thereby eliminating the need for direct manual observation and reducing time loss.
2Measurement precision
If manual locating methods are used, then scraper position can be determined, but specialized and trained manpower is required
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is designed to be self-service automated. The GPR antenna automatically transmits signals, the processor automatically analyzes the reflected waves to determine scraper position, and the system self-calibrates without requiring specialized trained manpower, thereby maintaining measurement precision while reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual procedures requiring trained personnel with a simplified automated electronic system. The GPR-based detection system performs all measurements and calculations automatically, reducing device complexity in terms of operational requirements while maintaining detection precision.
3Measurement precision
If pressure monitoring systems are used to detect scraper, then detection can be performed, but changes in scraper speed make it difficult to detect and locate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces pressure-based detection with GPR electromagnetic wave-based detection. Since electromagnetic wave propagation and reflection characteristics are not significantly affected by the scraper's speed changes, the system maintains high detection precision and adaptability across varying operational conditions without being disrupted by speed fluctuations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from pressure (which varies with scraper speed and flow conditions) to electromagnetic wave reflection characteristics (which remain relatively stable regardless of scraper speed). This parameter change enables the system to adapt to speed variations while maintaining consistent detection precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and proactive real-time locating and tracking of scrapers, reducing the risk of stuck conditions and ensuring safe arrival, while minimizing the need for manual labor and reducing man-hours in remote locations.
Implementation Method 1
sending a plurality of transmitted ground penetrating radar (GPR) waves to the buried pipeline using a GPR antenna of the UAV
Implementation Method 2
receiving a received GPR wave from the buried pipeline with one or more scrapers, wherein the received GPR wave is a combination of a reflected GPR wave
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes: launching an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) parallel to a buried pipeline; sending a plurality of transmitted ground penetrating radar (GPR) waves to the buried pipeline using a GPR antenna of the UAV; receiving a received GPR wave from the buried pipeline such that the received GPR wave is a combination of a reflected GPR wave with a ringing noise signal from the one or more scrapers; measuring one or more parameters of the received GPR wave and determining if values of the one or more parameters are within a predefined threshold region; recording location coordinates and a time stamp of the one or more scrapers by analyzing the received GPR wave; and sending the location coordinates and the time stamp of the one or more scrapers to a controller unit for continuous and real-time locating and tracking movement of the one or more scrapers.